Type 8 vs Type 5: Why Relationships Are Challenging for These Enneagram Types

They may dedicate their careers to climbing the corporate ladder, politics, or other elevated kinds of success in our culture. Enneagram Type 8s, also known as Challengers, and Type 3s, also known as Achievers, are examples of these types of people. In situations like this, they often avoid connections that may put them in a vulnerable position, opting instead for the sensation of freedom to play the proper power play whenever they choose, without any feelings attached to it. The proverb says, “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog.” This is a valid statement.

The Enneagram In contrast, Type 5s, also known as Investigators, are distinguished by their intellectual curiosity, their independence, and their tendency to engage in introspection. They often choose isolation and introspective contemplation over engaging in social relationships. The following are some of the reasons why people with Type 5 may have difficulty developing friendships:

Since the majority of Type 5s are introverts, it is possible that they need a significant amount of time alone in order to recharge their batteries. Interactions with other people might be exhausting for them, therefore they may choose to avoid them in order to save their energy. It is also true that other people are not as attracted to introverts for friendships (in our society), and it is often the extroverts that find themselves with people begging them to be their friend.

Style of Communication: They have a tendency to speak in a style that is factual and logical, which might give the impression that they are disinterested or impersonal. One consequence of this is that it may be challenging for individuals to form emotional connections with other people. It is a well-known proverb that “people remember how you made them feel,” therefore individuals with Type 5 diabetes need to consciously acquire and then develop abilities related to people as they get older.
The pursuit of intellectual interests and hobbies is a common activity among Type 5s, who are often completely absorbed in these activities. They are able to devote a considerable amount of time to activities that are performed in isolation, such as reading and working or playing on the internet. This either leaves them with little time for socializing or provides them with little reason to reach out to other people for activities that include companionship.